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Marshall County BZA approves small FFL transfer location at existing shop
Summary
The Board approved a special‑use permit for an FFL transfer point and limited gunsmithing at an existing shop, finding the proposal would be contained on site and generate minimal traffic; supporters said local access to transfers would reduce travel burden.
The Marshall County Board of Zoning Appeals approved a special‑use request on Dec. 9 allowing an FFL transfer location and limited gunsmithing at a shop on King Road (case 25BCA56).
County staff described the proposal as using an existing pole barn and shop on a 3.8‑acre parcel for appointment‑based transfers, minimal deliveries and no public retail. The TRC and staff recommended approval, noting the operation would not add new buildings and should generate little traffic.
Petitioner Andrew Hartman told the board the use would be small and hobby‑oriented: "I'm not looking to get rich," he said, adding that operations would be contained in the existing shop and transfers would generally occur by appointment. He indicated limited ammunition handling and no public firing range on site.
A nearby resident, Devin Johnson, spoke in favor, saying Hartman is of "outstanding character" and that a local transfer site would save residents trips to Plymouth or South Bend.
Following the public hearing the board moved, seconded and approved the special use by roll call. Staff advised the petitioner to follow the procedural requirements for FFL operations and federal licensing; county approval governs land use, not federal firearms licensing.
Next procedural steps for the petitioner include finalizing any building or site conditions required by the county and obtaining a federal firearms license before offering transfer services.
